The life cycle is typical of the [[Trichuris]] worms, the embryonated egg containing the L1 larvae is infective within 1 - 2 of being passed in faeces and under suitable conditions can remain viable of a number of years. Once ingested the L1 larvae hatches and penetrates the glands of the ileum, caecum and colon where 4 moults take place before the adult worm emerges. The pre-patent period of ''T. suis'' is 6-8 weeks and the adults can survive for up to 5 months.